The United States Hemp Roundtable presented Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles with its "Friend of Hemp Award" at Kentucky Hemp Days during Hemp History Week. The award is presented to individuals who exhibit tireless leadership on
behalf of the industry. The industry group also recognized U.S. Representatives Thomas Massie and Andy Barr for their stewardship of the growing hemp industry in Kentucky.

"When I became Commissioner of Agriculture, I wanted to make Kentucky a national leader in industrial hemp research by empowering our farmers and processors," Quarles said. "Kentucky's hemp history is unparalleled, and I am optimistic about
its future. I am incredibly honored to have been presented with this award."

Under Quarles' direction, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) led the effort to strengthen the legal framework governing Kentucky's industrial hemp research pilot program. In 2017, the Kentucky General Assembly enacted Senate Bill
218, which allows KDA to run its research program in an effective and efficient manner.

"Commissioner Quarles and his staff have led the way in building a hemp program with buy-in from Kentucky growers, processors, and law enforcement officers," said U.S. Hemp Roundtable President Brian Furnish. "Simply put, the industrial hemp
industry would not be where it is today without the leadership of Commissioner Quarles. We are incredibly grateful to him for continuing to lead and for never backing down from defending our farmers and processors."